When Doug Mirabelli was released Thursday, pitcher Tim Wakefield did not want to comment. Same thing on Friday.

On Saturday, Wakefield finally spoke about the release of his personal catcher.

"Shocked. Very shocked," Wakefield said of his reaction.

"I'm saddened by the whole situation. It's a business decision on their part.

"Cash can do a good job, but I'm going to really miss Doug; not only his professionalism and the way he handled me, and the comfort level I had with him, but also his friendship.

"It's unfortunate it happened that way. But you have to get past that. I'm still an employee here and it's there decision to make.

"He was caught off-guard too.

"In no means do I want to take anything away from Kevin Cash. He did a great job with me last year. I think he can handle the job.

"Dougie kind of taught himself (how to catch a knuckleball) ... He got to know me and my mechanics.

"A lot of the guys in that clubhouse respected his opinion.

"Even though he was a back-up catcher, his opinion was very important to everybody. He was a factor in our clubhouse and a factor in our team chemistry.

"I told (Cash) that I don't have any doubts that he'll do a good job. It's just sad to see a good friend get released. We've been through a lot together, so it's been pretty tough.

"From a professional standpoint, I have to move on. I can't dwell on it too much."

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